What is the range of a Low-power NDB compass locator in an ILS setup?

What is the range of a Low-power NDB compass locator in an ILS setup?

• A. 10 NM
• B. 15 NM
• C. 20 NM
• D. 25 NM

Answer: (B)

The range of a low-power non-directional beacon (NDB) compass locator in an Instrument Landing System (ILS) setup is typically around 15 nautical miles. This range is designed to ensure that the identifier and guidance signals from the NDB are reliably received by the aircraft during the approach phase. In the context of an ILS, these low-power NDBs serve as navigational aids that assist pilots in aligning with the runway during instrument approaches, particularly in conditions where visibility is poor. The choice to establish the effective range at 15 nautical miles balances the need for coverage to guide aircraft while maintaining a manageable signal strength that ensures clarity and reduces the likelihood of interference. Other ranges, such as 10, 20, or 25 nautical miles, do not align with the typical operational standards designated for low-power NDBs within ILS systems. Therefore, 15 nautical miles is the standard and widely accepted range for these critical navigational aids, supporting their effectiveness in guiding aircraft safely to the runway.

The range of a low-power non-directional beacon (NDB) compass locator in an Instrument Landing System (ILS) setup is typically around 15 nautical miles. This range is designed to ensure that the identifier and guidance signals from the NDB are reliably received by the aircraft during the approach phase.

In the context of an ILS, these low-power NDBs serve as navigational aids that assist pilots in aligning with the runway during instrument approaches, particularly in conditions where visibility is poor. The choice to establish the effective range at 15 nautical miles balances the need for coverage to guide aircraft while maintaining a manageable signal strength that ensures clarity and reduces the likelihood of interference.

Other ranges, such as 10, 20, or 25 nautical miles, do not align with the typical operational standards designated for low-power NDBs within ILS systems. Therefore, 15 nautical miles is the standard and widely accepted range for these critical navigational aids, supporting their effectiveness in guiding aircraft safely to the runway.